Barton refused America visa

13 July 2011 08:30

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Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton will miss the club's pre-season trip to the United States after being denied a visa.

The 28-year-old, who was given a six-month jail sentence after admitting assault and affray in 2008, has been denied the necessary permission to travel with the rest of the first-team Magpies' squad when they leave on Sunday. Newcastle said that Barton will instead link up with Peter Beardsley's reserves when they head for Holland on July 20.

Barton said in a statement on Newcastle's official website: "Unfortunately, I was denied my visa due to my past. I regret not being able to travel with the club on this trip, but at the same time, I don't expect to be treated any differently or more favourably than anyone else in a similar situation."

He added: "All I can do is continue to improve as a person, which is what I intend to do.

"Again, apologies to all the NUFC supporters - as well as the fast growing legions of football supporters in the United States who I was looking forward to meeting. I will see you in the future."